I constantly work at maintaining balance. For me, my family comes first. If my family is taken care of, then everything else usually falls into place.

I don't write my own songs. I don't have time.

The only album that I listen to upon recording a new one is my 'Cry' album, because sonically, I think it's my best album to date. But other than that, I've never listened to my records, ever.

There are things I've done in the past I'm not proud of - and I could talk about them if I wanted to - but I don't reveal my secrets... I prefer certain things to remain personal; there have to be boundaries. And I don't think you need a scandal to have an interesting story.

I'm a very independent woman.

Everybody wants you to do good things, but in a small town you pretty much graduate and get married. Mostly you marry, have children and go to their football games.

I have a lot of respect for my birth mother I know she must have had a lot of love for me to want to give what she felt was a better chance.